Microbeads Are Under the Microscope

New legislation in New York wants to ban beauty usage.

Melissa Meisel02.11.14

New York could be the first state to stop the incorporation of exfoliating microbeads in face scrubs, body washes and toothpaste, according to reports. Legislation is scheduled to be introduced by Assemblyman Robert K. Sweeney of Suffolk County on behalf of Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman. It would prohibit the sale of cosmetic and beauty products that contain the beads, said reports.

The reasoning behind the possible ban is environmental. Reports stated that the microspheres have appeared in bodies of water and are being consumed by marine life. The New York lawmakers worked with 5 Gyres, a group that fights plastic pollution in oceans, lakes and rivers.

According to reports, some personal care companies have agreed to phase out the spheres, including P&G and J&J.